In recent years, the perception of marijuana has radically shifted as legislation and public opinion continue to evolve. However, despite the growing acceptance of cannabis, it remains crucial to address the question, “Is weed bad for you?” This blog post will provide an unbiased, non-judgmental analysis of the potential health effects of cannabis use, particularly for those looking to quit. Research conducted over the past few decades has shed light on the relationship between marijuana use and mental health and its impact on young adults and adolescent marijuana users.
In the following segments, we will explore the diverse health hazards connected with marijuana use, encompassing the probable perils of inhaling marijuana smoke and being exposed to secondhand marijuana smoke. We will also explore the link between marijuana use and respiratory issues such as chronic bronchitis and lung infections. Additionally, we’ll examine the development of marijuana use disorder and its classification as a substance use disorder.
As weed’s popularity continues to grow, understanding the potential adverse health effects of marijuana is more critical than ever. We aim to provide you with the necessary information to make informed decisions about your cannabis use, emphasizing promoting mental and physical well-being.
The Benefits of Weed
The Medicinal Benefits of Cannabis
Although concerns exist regarding the potential adverse health effects of marijuana use, it is essential to consider the numerous medicinal benefits that the cannabis indica plant offers [1]. Medical marijuana has gained acceptance as an alternative treatment for various health conditions, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and cancer [2]. The marijuana extracts, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are often used in the medical realm to alleviate symptoms and improve patient’s quality of life.
The Benefits of Marijuana for Mental Health
Cannabis can also positively impact mental health when used in appropriate contexts and dosages. Research suggests that marijuana may help treat conditions like anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression [3]. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the impact of marijuana on the brain can vary significantly from person to person. In some cases, marijuana use may exacerbate psychiatric disorders or lead to the development of new ones, such as schizophrenia or psychosis [4]. Consequently, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional when considering cannabis as a treatment for mental illness.
The Benefits of Marijuana for Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain management is another area where medical marijuana has shown promise. Evidence indicates that cannabis can be an effective pain reliever, particularly for patients experiencing neuropathic pain or pain associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraine [5]. The use of cannabis for chronic pain management can help reduce reliance on opioid medications, which carry significant risks of addiction and overdose [6].
while marijuana use can pose potential health risks, it also provides numerous benefits in the realms of medicine, mental health, and chronic pain management. It is crucial for individuals to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of cannabis use and consult with a healthcare professional to make informed decisions.
The Negative Effects of Weed
The Effects of THC on the Brain and Mental Health
While marijuana can provide therapeutic benefits for some individuals, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC, can adversely affect mental and brain health [7]. High doses of THC may exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders, especially in susceptible individuals [8]. Long-term marijuana use has also been associated with cognitive impairments, memory issues, and a decline in IQ, particularly when use begins in adolescence [9].
The Negative Effects of Marijuana on the Respiratory System
Smoking marijuana poses significant risks to lung health. Since marijuana smoke comprises numerous toxic substances present in tobacco smoke, the likelihood of chronic bronchitis and lung infections escalates [10]. Furthermore, secondhand marijuana smoke exposure can also harm non-users, causing respiratory issues and reduced lung function [11]. While research on the link between marijuana smoking and lung cancer remains inconclusive, the presence of carcinogenic compounds in marijuana smoke raises concerns [12].
The Potential for Addiction and Abuse
Marijuana use disorder, a form of substance use disorder, affects approximately 9% of users, with the rate increasing to 17% among those who begin using marijuana during adolescence [13]. Marijuana addiction is characterized by tolerance, withdrawal symptoms upon quitting marijuana, and difficulty controlling use despite adverse health effects. Cannabis addiction can negatively affect various aspects of life, such as relationships, work, and overall well-being.
Marijuana Use and Long-Term Health Risks
Potential Risks for Long-Term Marijuana Use
Long-term marijuana use can lead to several adverse health effects. Heavy marijuana users may experience a decline in cognitive function, particularly in attention, memory, and learning [9]. Furthermore, high doses of marijuana have been linked to an increased risk of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety [8] and psychotic symptoms [4].
Correlation Between Marijuana Use and Certain Health Conditions
Constant marijuana use has been associated with several health conditions. For example, it has been linked to respiratory problems, including chronic bronchitis, lung infections, and even lung cancer [10][11][12]. Moreover, research has indicated that marijuana consumption, particularly in high doses and among people susceptible to such conditions, could amplify the probability of acquiring specific mental disorders like anxiety and psychosis [4][8].
Effects of Marijuana on Brain Development
The effects of marijuana on brain development are particularly concerning for young people, as their brains are still developing. Studies have shown that persistent cannabis use during adolescence can lead to long-lasting cognitive impairments, including memory, attention, and learning deficits [9]. Furthermore, starting marijuana consumption early correlates with an elevated possibility of developing psychiatric disorders later in life [4].
Legalization and Regulation
Current Legal Status of Marijuana
The legal status of marijuana varies significantly across the globe, with some countries allowing medical and recreational use while others maintain strict prohibitions. In the United States, for example, marijuana remains a federally illegal drug[1]. Still, many states have legalized its use for medical and/or recreational purposes.
The Effects of Legalization on the Safety and Health of the Public
Legalizing marijuana has been shown to impact public health and safety. Studies have reported mixed results, with some suggesting that legalization may lead to increased use and potentially harmful health effects[7]. However, other studies have shown that states with legal recreational marijuana have not experienced significant changes in behavioral health statistics or disease control[13].
Importance of Regulation for Safe Use
Regulation plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe use of marijuana. For instance, it can help control the potency of marijuana products, as high-potency marijuana has been associated with a higher risk of adverse health effects[7]. Additionally, regulation can help prevent underage use, which is particularly important given the impact of marijuana on developing brains[9].
Conclusion
This comprehensive look at the health effects of cannabis demonstrates that while there are potential risks associated with marijuana use, proper regulation, and responsible consumption can minimize these dangers. Legalization and regulation play vital roles in promoting public health and safety. Understanding these factors is essential for cannabis users seeking to quit.
If you’re looking for active support in your journey to quit cannabis, consider downloading the Grounded app, available for both iOS and Android. Grounded provides helpful resources and tracking tools to assist you in your journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Don’t hesitate—download Grounded today and take the first step toward a cannabis-free future!
References:
[1] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Marijuana as Medicine. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-medicine
[2] Whiting, P. F., Wolff, R. F., Deshpande, S., Di Nisio, M., Duffy, S., Hernandez, A. V., Keurentjes, J. C., Lang, S., Misso, K., Ryder, S., Schmidlkofer, S., Westwood, M., & Kleijnen, J. (2015). Cannabinoids for Medical Use: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA, 313(24), 2456–2473. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.6358
[3] Walsh, Z., Gonzalez, R., Crosby, K., S Thiessen, M., Carroll, C., & Bonn-Miller, M. O. (2017). Medical cannabis and mental health: A guided systematic review. Clinical psychology review, 51, 15–29. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2016.10.002
[4] Di Forti, M., Quattrone, D., Freeman, T. P., Tripoli, G., Gayer-Anderson, C., Quigley, H., Rodriguez, V., Jongsma, H. E., Ferraro, L., La Cascia, C., La Barbera, D., Tarricone, I., Berardi, D., Szöke, A., Arango, C., Tortelli, A., Velthorst, E., Bernardo, M., Del-Ben, C. M., Menezes, P. R., … EU-GEI WP2 Group (2019). The contribution of cannabis use to variation in the incidence of psychotic disorder across Europe (EU-GEI): a multicentre case-control study. The lancet. Psychiatry, 6(5), 427–436. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(19)30048-3
[5] Nugent, S. M., Morasco, B. J., O’Neil, M. E., Freeman, M., Low, A., Kondo, K., Elven, C., Zakher, B., Motu’apuaka, M., Paynter, R., & Kansagara, D. (2017). The Effects of Cannabis Among Adults With Chronic Pain and an Overview of General Harms: A Systematic Review. Annals of internal medicine, 167(5), 319–331. https://doi.org/10.7326/M17-0155
[7] Volkow, N. D., Baler, R. D., Compton, W. M., & Weiss, S. R. (2014). Adverse health effects of marijuana use. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(23), 2219-2227.
[8] Crippa, J. A., Zuardi, A. W., Martín-Santos, R., Bhattacharyya, S., Atakan, Z., McGuire, P., & Fusar-Poli, P. (2009). Cannabis and anxiety: a critical review of the evidence. Human psychopharmacology, 24(7), 515–523. https://doi.org/10.1002/hup.1048
[9] Meier, M. H., Caspi, A., Ambler, A., Harrington, H., Houts, R., Keefe, R. S., … & Moffitt, T. E. (2012). Persistent cannabis users show neuropsychological decline from childhood to midlife. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(40), E2657-E2664.
[10] Tashkin D. P. (2013). Effects of marijuana smoking on the lung. Annals of the American Thoracic Society, 10(3), 239–247. https://doi.org/10.1513/AnnalsATS.201212-127FR
[11] Moir, D., Rickert, W. S., Levasseur, G., Larose, Y., Maertens, R., White, P., & Desjardins, S. (2008). A comparison of mainstream and sidestream marijuana and tobacco cigarette smoke produced under two machine smoking conditions. Chemical research in toxicology, 21(2), 494–502. https://doi.org/10.1021/tx700275p
[12] Zhang, L. R., Morgenstern, H., Greenland, S., Chang, S. C., Lazarus, P., Teare, M. D., Woll, P. J., Orlow, I., Cox, B., Cannabis and Respiratory Disease Research Group of New Zealand, Brhane, Y., Liu, G., & Hung, R. J. (2015). Cannabis smoking and lung cancer risk: Pooled analysis in the International Lung Cancer Consortium. International journal of cancer, 136(4), 894–903. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.29036
[13] Cerdá, M., Mauro, C., Hamilton, A., Levy, N. S., Santaella-Tenorio, J., Hasin, D., Wall, M. M., Keyes, K. M., & Martins, S. S. (2020). Association Between Recreational Marijuana Legalization in the United States and Changes in Marijuana Use and Cannabis Use Disorder From 2008 to 2016. JAMA psychiatry, 77(2), 165–171. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.3254